11 Packable Rain Jackets That Take Up Next to No Space

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When you're venturing outdoors to hike, climb, or even go for a long-distance bike ride, a waterproof rain jacket isn't an option — it's a necessity. Heavy storms can surprise you out of nowhere! Nowadays, many rain jackets are packable (most of them into their own pocket!) because nobody wants to wear a jacket when the sun is shining, and tying it around your waist just isn't cool anymore. Toss one of these packable rain jackets in your backpack the next time you head outside, and you'll be prepared for whatever mother nature has in store.

Keep this lightweight jacket (under 15 ounces) in your backpack any time you're more than a mile from the trailhead so you're always prepared for unexpected downpours. It's strong enough to fight off the scariest thunderstorms and durable enough for plenty of use and abuse. It comes in more than 10 eye-catching colors.

This jacket shines when it comes to breathability, making it ideal for hard-working hikers. The company's Airskape fabric on the inside changes from clear to a darker tint when it's working hard to absorb and spread out moisture, so you can literally see the technology working to keep you cool and dry!

Call it a softshell that's waterproof or a rain jacket that's stretchy. Either way, one thing's for certain — the Kinetic Plus will keep you comfy and protected from mother nature no matter how far you venture from civilization. It's stretchier than most softshells, breathes as well as a base layer, and repels water like oil, thanks to its DWR (Durable Water Repellant) coating and taped seams. We knew there was a reason it won Backpacker Magazine's Editors' Choice Award in 2017.

Wear this jacket straight from the trail to the tavern! Clean lines and modern styling make it appropriate for daily wear, while a seam-sealed multi-layer shell fights off wind and water with ease. Perhaps our favorite feature is the storm flap that conceals the front zipper, adding both extra style and waterproofing.

Rain jackets aren't all movement-restricting — this stretchy fabric allows for full range of motion while remaining completely waterproof and even breathable. The hood is adjustable, so it fits snugly around your bare head, and it expands to fit over a snow or climbing helmet. When you're not using it, this jacket packs into its own pocket for easy storage.

The lightest jacket in this review (just 6.4 ounces), the Helium II is a solid upgrade to its top-notch predecessor. When you're trekking long distances and every ounce counts, you'll be pleasantly surprised at how mighty this featherweight jacket is when it comes to fighting big storms. Heck, it's so small and lightweight, you might even forget it's in your pack!

Marmot's Precip has long been a contender for one of the best values in rain jackets (trust us, we've owned a few over the years). It's highly waterproof, breathes exceptionally well, and it feels light, both while wearing and when it's stuffed in your pack. Best of all, it won't cost you an arm and a leg, so it's great for casual wearers who want a solid entry-level option.

Who ever said packable rain jackets can't be fashion-forward was lying! This number challenges the sporty, technical-style of most rain jackets by delivering a soft-shell hoody that's a pleasant blend of fashion meets function. Keep it in your backpack when you head out to a concert or a night on the town, and you'll never find yourself wearing a trash bag as a poncho again.

Helly Hansen makes killer outerwear for snowsports, so it's no surprise that its rain jackets perform well, too. The Loke is the perfect outer layer to keep you warm and dry when winds are whipping and raindrops are falling sideways. And if you're sweating on the uphill, just undo the long pit zips to let heat escape, so you'll stay dry underneath for the climb ahead.

From Mt. Everest to K2, sherpas know the mountain better than anyone else, so it's no surprise that an outerwear company named after them is more than capable of protecting you from the nastiest conditions. It's been designed to keep you comfortable while carrying a heavy pack with a bulk-free, anatomic fit, a lightweight laminate fabric, and pockets that are placed high to reduce chaffing when lugging a heavy backpack.

Value-minded shoppers have come to rely on Columbia for offering quality products at affordable prices, and this jacket is no exception. It's waterproof and breathable, and it packs into its own pocket. Plus, it does all of this at a fraction of the price of its competitors.